First MTR South Western Trains Limited wins South Western rail franchise

First MTR South Western Trains Limited has won South Western rail franchise to provide more services and faster journeys.

Following a consultation on the South Eastern franchise which revealed ambitions to collaborate the operation of track and train, it has been announced that a seven year contract has been won by First MTR South Western Trains Limited.

The franchise, which will run from 20 August 2017, is the first to be announced since the Secretary of State set out his vision for the future of railways, and marks a new era in collaborative working between train operators and Network Rail.

First MTR South Western Trains Limited will take guidance from one of major shareholders MTR, to deliver smooth and fast journeys for passengers travelling around London’s suburban network. A new fleet of suburban trains will be introduced, which offer a regular, metro-style service.

Passengers will have more space, as the railway supports London’s growth.

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said: “Following on from our announcement on the start of the South Eastern Franchise consultation, this deal is more great news for rail passengers.

“First MTR South Western Trains Limited will deliver the improvements that people tell us they want right across the South Western franchise area, from Bristol and Exeter, to Southampton and Portsmouth, to Reading, Windsor and London.

“We are delivering the biggest rail modernisation programme for over a century and this franchise will deliver real changes for passengers, who can look forward to modern trains, faster journeys and a more reliable service.”

The aim of the new franchise is to create a railway that is predominantly run by an integrated local team of people with a commitment to the smooth operation of their routes, improving services and performance. First MTR South Western Trains Limited expects to work even closer with Network Rail, with the shared aim of fulfilling the vision for the network.

First MTR South Western Trains Limited will oversee a £1.2Bn investment that will improve journeys for millions of train passengers, and provide a boost for the communities served.

The new contract will see passengers provided with better information throughout their journey, on-board trains, on platforms and through a new mobile phone app, including live information on seating availability and crowding levels, so that passengers know the best place to stand to board the train. These are just few of a large package of improvements included in the contracts.

The investment in rail will create thousands of jobs and opportunities across the country. The government is also committed to creating 30,000 apprenticeships in the road and rail sector by 2020.

The new rail franchise is expected to offer more than 100 apprenticeships each year, helping boost skills and jobs.

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